The Divinity Developer Clarifies Its Implementation of Machine Learning for Next Divinity Game
The team behind acclaimed RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just teased its new project, generating immense excitement within the player base. However, subsequent comments from the company's co-founder have brought a new dimension to the narrative, focusing on the team's philosophy toward generative artificial intelligence.
Augmenting Workflows, Not Cutting Jobs
In a new clarification, the studio's founder detailed that the developer is employing machine learning for certain preliminary tasks. These involve enhancing PowerPoint slides, generating early-stage visual ideas, and creating placeholder copy.
Notably, Vincke made clear that the final material in the game will be authored solely by actual creatives. "We are creating everything manually," he affirmed.
Our studio is actively growing our team of writers and are busily assembling writing teams.
As this area is being particularly called out — we currently have over twenty visual developers and have positions available for more artists.
Everything we do is additive and designed to letting our team spend greater focus on the creative process.
Every ML tool implemented properly is additive to a artist's workflow, not a substitute for their talent.
Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision
The revelation of employing this technology at first sparked unease among portions of the community. In response, Vincke provided more clarification on social media.
"At Larian, we employ these tools to research ideas, just like we use search engines and reference books," he stated. "During the very early ideation stages we use it as a rough outline for structure which we then replace with authentic concept art."
He added, "Larian brings on talent for their inherent skill, not for their ability to execute what a AI generates."
Three Pillars of Practical Application
Vincke had previously outlined the company's practical method to machine learning, categorizing its use into three main pillars:
- Streamlining Repetitive Work: Areas like polishing mocap data, voice editing, and technical processes like retargeting animations.
- Accelerated Iteration: Using technology to rapidly prototype basic models of mechanics to experiment with concepts before expensive development.
- Future Potential for Gameplay: Researching how machine learning could in the future facilitate new forms of reactivity, particularly in managing unforeseen permutations in a complex RPG.
He specifically stated that key artistic disciplines — including writing — are are absolutely not fields where the team is replacing artistic input. In fact, Larian is actively hiring in these precise positions.
"Larian is neither launching a game with machine-made assets, nor considering trimming down staff to substitute them with artificial intelligence," Vincke summarized.